India Commissions First Batch Of Women Fighter Pilots In IAF And We Couldn't Be More Proud!

Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar scripted history on Saturday when he formally commissioned the first three women fighter pilots in the Indian Air Force. This move was a long time coming as the Air Force had traditionally restricted the entry of women in combat roles.

Avani Chaturvedi of Madhya Pradesh, Mohana Singh of Rajasthan and Bhawana Kanth of Bihar made the country proud by becoming the first of the lot and paving the way for other ambitious women looking to join the field in future.

"I wanted to carry on the family legacy of serving the nation by being in defence and what better way than fighter-flying," said Mohana, who is from a family of Air Force officers. She was also very excited about joining the force and said, “I dream of being a part of future combat missions, and fight for the nation when duty calls.”

These fighter pilots have crossed just one hurdle as of now. A tough training lies ahead for the commissioned pilots who will be posted to Bidar or kalaikunda airbase for transitional fighter training on the Hawks. There they will learn combat maneuvers and armament firing.

Although it’s a remarkable moment in the history of Indian Airforce, it must be noted that this is just for an experimental phase of 5 years. Also, the army and navy do not have any plans to allow the womento serve in the infantry or on warships. It’s a long road ahead but let’s be grateful that we’ve got a good start!